31 January 1996
The casino began trading after receiving its Queensland casino licence in January 1996.
Cairns Casino refers to The Reef Hotel Casino, the city's established casino, hotel and entertainment complex. Located in central Cairns near Trinity Inlet, the property combines casino gaming with accommodation, dining, bars, live entertainment and visitor facilities in one destination.
The Reef Hotel Casino commenced trading on 31 January 1996, following the granting of its casino licence earlier that month. Since opening, it has operated as Cairns' principal land-based casino and as an important part of the city's hospitality and entertainment offering.
The property is located at 35–41 Wharf Street in Cairns City, close to the waterfront and Trinity Inlet. Its central location places Cairns Casino within walking distance of the Cairns Esplanade, the marina, city restaurants, accommodation and other visitor attractions.
Casino operations are conducted by Casinos Austria International (Cairns) Limited. The venue operates within Queensland's regulated casino framework and is subject to the Casino Control Act 1982 and oversight by the state's gambling regulator.
Cairns Casino forms part of a broader integrated complex that includes the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino. Visitors can combine casino gaming with five-star accommodation, restaurants, bars, live entertainment, sports viewing and private event facilities without travelling between separate venues.
The casino began trading after receiving its Queensland casino licence in January 1996.
Casino operations are conducted by Casinos Austria International (Cairns) Limited.
The complex stands near Trinity Inlet at 35–41 Wharf Street, close to the Cairns waterfront.
The gaming venue is connected with Pullman Reef Hotel Casino, creating a combined stay, dining and entertainment destination.
The property is designed as more than a gaming floor. It brings together casino facilities and supporting hospitality services so visitors can plan an entire evening or an extended stay at one central Cairns location.
More than 450 gaming machines together with live and electronic table-game options.
A TAB Mega Wall, dedicated Keno Lounge and sports-viewing facilities within the casino complex.
Multiple dining and drinking venues ranging from casual meals and coffee to refined restaurant dining.
Live entertainment, events and direct access to the connected five-star Pullman hotel.
Its waterfront setting, long operating history and integration with a luxury hotel distinguish Cairns Casino from a standalone gaming venue. The result is a compact destination where gaming, accommodation, food, drinks, sport and entertainment are available within the same complex.
Cairns Casino brings together traditional casino gaming, modern electronic play and dedicated sports and wagering facilities within one professionally managed gaming environment at The Reef Hotel Casino.
The gaming floor at Cairns Casino is designed to offer several different styles of play within one connected venue. Visitors can choose from more than 450 gaming machines, live table games, electronic table gaming, scheduled poker, Keno and sports wagering without moving between separate properties.
Each part of the casino has its own purpose while remaining connected to the wider gaming floor. Electronic machines provide flexible individual play, live tables create a traditional casino atmosphere, and dedicated areas support poker, racing, sport, Keno and premium gaming.
The casino is supported by Guest Services, a Cash Desk, gaming staff and hospitality facilities. This allows first-time visitors and regular players to find assistance, understand available games and move between different areas of the venue more easily.
More than 450 electronic gaming machines form the largest gaming category on the Cairns Casino floor.
Traditional dealer-operated casino tables provide a social gaming experience in the main table-games area.
Automated terminals offer electronic versions of familiar table-game formats with individual player controls.
Texas Hold'em poker sessions operate on selected evenings as a separate scheduled gaming experience.
Dedicated facilities support sports and racing wagering together with Keno inside the casino complex.
Separate VIP and high-stakes areas provide a more private gaming setting for eligible guests.
Cairns Casino is arranged as a connected entertainment environment rather than a series of isolated gaming rooms. Visitors can move between gaming machines, traditional tables, electronic terminals, poker, Keno and sports wagering while remaining close to bars, restaurants and hotel facilities.
The casino floor also connects with practical visitor services, including Guest Services and the Cash Desk. Gaming staff are available throughout the venue, while drink service and nearby hospitality facilities support longer evening visits.
Casino staff and game information help visitors understand the gaming floor and available forms of play.
The casino's Card Play system provides a convenient method for managing credits on compatible gaming machines.
Guest Services, Cash Desk facilities and floor staff support visitors throughout their time in the casino.
Responsible gambling information and assistance are available throughout the regulated Cairns Casino environment.
Cairns Casino offers more than 450 gaming machines across the casino floor, including modern video slots, traditional-style machines and linked progressive jackpot games with a range of denominations and betting options.
Gaming machines form one of the largest parts of the Cairns Casino gaming floor. The venue provides more than 450 machines, giving visitors access to a broad mix of game themes, reel formats, bonus features and jackpot opportunities within one central casino area.
The machine selection includes both lower-denomination options and games designed for higher levels of play. This allows guests to choose a machine based on preferred stake size, game style, volatility and jackpot format rather than being limited to one standard betting level.
Progressive jackpot machines are available throughout the gaming floor. These machines can contribute a portion of eligible wagers to a jackpot pool that may continue increasing until a qualifying winning combination is achieved.
Cairns Casino also uses its Card Play system on compatible gaming machines. The system provides an alternative to repeatedly inserting and collecting cash and allows credits to be managed more conveniently while moving between participating machines.
More than 450 electronic gaming machines are available across the Cairns Casino gaming floor.
A range of machine denominations and stake options supports different budgets and individual playing preferences.
Selected machines are connected to progressive jackpot systems with prize pools that may increase as qualifying games are played.
Card Play allows credits to be transferred and managed across compatible machines within the casino.
The machine collection includes varied visual themes, reel structures, bonus rounds and interactive game features.
Casino staff are available to assist with machine operation, Card Play, payouts and general gaming floor enquiries.
Progressive jackpot machines differ from standard fixed-prize games because the potential jackpot may grow as eligible wagers are placed. Depending on the machine, the jackpot may be linked to a group of machines within the venue or form part of a wider linked gaming system.
Jackpot values, eligibility conditions and required bet levels vary between games. Players should review the information shown on the machine before beginning play, including active pay lines, denomination, credit value and any conditions required to qualify for the displayed jackpot.
The Card Play system is designed to simplify the way credits are handled on participating gaming machines. Instead of carrying loose coins or repeatedly collecting cash from individual machines, eligible credits can be associated with a Card Play account and used across compatible machines on the casino floor.
Players can obtain information about Card Play registration, activation, account access and cash-out procedures from casino staff or Guest Services. The system does not change the rules, odds or payout structure of the individual gaming machine.
Follow the casino's Card Play procedures to access eligible gaming credits.
Use the system on participating gaming machines across the casino floor.
Move between compatible machines or complete the approved cash-out process.
The gaming machine area is designed for both short visits and extended sessions. Clear machine displays, varied denominations and convenient access to casino services allow players to choose how they use the floor.
Machine controls allow players to select available denominations, bet levels, pay lines and game features.
Selected machines include free-game rounds, multipliers, expanding symbols and other game-specific bonus mechanics.
The gaming machine mix may be refreshed over time as new titles, cabinet formats and gaming features are introduced.
Players remain close to casino staff, drink service and other hospitality facilities within the wider complex.
Each gaming machine displays its denomination, credit value, available bet options, pay table and game rules. Jackpot amounts and eligibility requirements can differ between machines, so players should review the on-screen information before placing a wager. Casino staff can assist with general machine operation and Card Play enquiries but cannot influence game outcomes.
Experience traditional dealer-led gaming at The Reef Hotel Casino, with a varied collection of card, wheel and dice games offered across the live table gaming floor.
The live table gaming area at Cairns Casino brings together several recognised casino games within a professionally managed floor. Each game is hosted by a trained dealer or gaming attendant who controls the equipment, accepts permitted wagers and manages each round according to the applicable casino rules.
Players can choose between card games such as Blackjack and Baccarat, wheel-based games including Roulette and Money Wheel, the dice game Sic Bo, and Reef Routine, a distinctive casino table game offered at The Reef Hotel Casino.
The games differ in pace, layout and betting structure. Some involve decisions during the round, while others allow players to place a wager before the cards, dice or wheel determine the result.
Blackjack is played against the dealer. The objective is to build a hand closer to 21 than the dealer's hand without exceeding 21. Players receive cards and may make available decisions such as taking another card or keeping their current total.
Live Roulette centres on a numbered wheel and a corresponding betting layout. Players place chips on individual numbers or broader groups before the dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball.
Mini Baccarat presents the traditional Player, Banker and Tie wagering options in a compact dealer-controlled format. The dealer handles the cards and applies the drawing rules automatically.
Midi Baccarat follows the established Baccarat betting structure while using a larger table presentation. It provides a more spacious and traditional live Baccarat atmosphere.
Sic Bo uses three dice and a betting layout containing several possible combinations. Wagers can relate to totals, individual numbers, pairs, triples and other outcomes produced by the dice.
Reef Routine adds a distinctive option to the Cairns Casino live gaming collection. The game is conducted at a dedicated table, with the dealer managing the cards, betting stages and settlement of winning wagers.
Money Wheel is built around a large vertical wheel divided into clearly marked sections. Players select one or more symbols or values on the betting layout before the wheel is spun by the gaming attendant.
Procedures differ by game, but most live tables follow a clear sequence managed by the dealer.
Chips may be purchased at the Cash Desk or, where permitted, directly at the gaming table.
Check the displayed table limits and wait until the current round has been completed before joining.
Position chips in the appropriate betting area before the dealer announces that betting is closed.
The dealer distributes cards, spins the wheel or operates the game equipment according to the official rules.
At the end of the round, losing wagers are collected and eligible winning wagers are paid at the applicable rate.
New players do not need to understand every procedure before approaching a table. Gaming staff can explain the basic layout, available betting areas, table limits and the normal sequence of play before a wager is placed.
Cairns Casino also provides How to Play information for its table games. Guides may be available online and from the information area near the casino Cash Desk.
Place or adjust wagers only while betting is open and follow the dealer's instructions during each round.
Live table wagers are made with approved casino chips placed clearly within the relevant betting area.
Follow instructions relating to cards, chips, personal belongings and mobile devices around the gaming table.
When uncertain about a wager or procedure, ask a staff member before the dealer closes betting.
The number of open tables, operating times, minimum wagers and maximum limits can change according to demand and casino operations. Visitors should check the information displayed at each table or speak with casino staff for current availability.
Discover gaming-focused promotions at Cairns Casino, including daily prize draws, Keno campaigns, seasonal casino events and exclusive Reef Rewards opportunities.
Promotional activity changes throughout the year, giving eligible guests opportunities to participate in prize draws, Keno offers, gaming campaigns and Reef Rewards member promotions.
Scheduled prize draws can provide eligible guests with chances to win cash, gaming rewards and promotional prizes during selected casino campaigns.
Larger promotional campaigns may feature valuable prizes for guests who meet the applicable entry requirements.
Selected Keno campaigns can include promotional draws, bonus opportunities and limited-time prize activity.
The casino floor can host themed gaming events, seasonal promotions and special activities across selected gaming areas.
Reef Rewards members can receive access to selected prize draws, bonus point campaigns and members-only offers.
Regular short-format prize opportunities and gaming offers.
Larger prize campaigns operating during selected promotional periods.
Dedicated offers linked to eligible Keno participation.
Exclusive promotional opportunities for Reef Rewards members.
Alongside its traditional live tables, Cairns Casino features a selection of electronic table games that combine familiar casino rules with modern touchscreen technology and automated gameplay.
Electronic table games allow players to enjoy recognised casino favourites through individual gaming terminals instead of a live dealer. Betting, game information and results are displayed directly on the screen, while payouts are processed automatically.
The electronic collection currently includes Electronic Roulette, Electronic Blackjack and the Vegas Star Multigame system.
Place bets using a digital Roulette layout before the betting timer expires. Winning numbers, payouts and recent results are displayed automatically on the terminal.
Enjoy Blackjack using a digital interface where cards, available actions and results appear on the screen. The system automatically manages dealing and settlement.
Vegas Star allows players to access multiple electronic casino games from one terminal, making it easy to switch between available game formats during a session.
Easy-to-follow digital layouts help new players understand available betting options.
Fast automated rounds allow players to move through games without waiting for manual settlement.
Individual terminals provide a quieter and more independent gaming environment.
Clear touchscreen navigation makes placing wagers quick and straightforward.
Reef Rewards is the official loyalty programme of Cairns Casino, allowing members to earn bonus points, unlock exclusive offers and access a growing range of member-only benefits throughout the venue.
Membership is free to join. Guests receive a Reef Rewards card after registering at Guest Services with valid photo identification, allowing them to start collecting bonus points immediately.
The programme includes several membership levels that recognise regular play. Higher tiers provide access to additional rewards, personalised offers and enhanced member privileges.
Members can redeem eligible bonus points for selected rewards while also receiving invitations to exclusive promotions, prize draws and seasonal casino campaigns.
Eligible members can receive complimentary parking benefits when meeting the applicable programme conditions during their casino visit. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Reef Rewards members receive access to member-only giveaways, promotional draws, birthday rewards and selected venue offers that are updated throughout the year. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Bonus points can be accumulated on eligible gaming machines and redeemed for cash or selected venue rewards, depending on the current programme conditions. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Texas Hold'em Poker is one of the dedicated live gaming experiences available at Cairns Casino, offering regular No Limit cash games in a relaxed poker environment for both local players and visitors.
Cairns Casino hosts live Texas Hold'em cash games every Friday and Saturday from 7:00 PM. Games take place inside the dedicated Casino Sports Arena, creating a comfortable setting designed specifically for poker players.
The standard format is No Limit Texas Hold'em with buy-ins from A$50 to A$500 and blinds beginning at A$2 / A$5.
Live No Limit Texas Hold'em cash games with flexible buy-ins and regular weekend schedules.
Games are played inside the Casino Sports Arena, providing a space focused entirely on live poker action.
Community cards, strategic betting and player-versus-player action make Texas Hold'em one of the world's most popular poker formats.
Success depends on strategy, observation and decision making.
Enjoy live interaction around a dedicated poker table.
Consistent Friday and Saturday evening sessions.
Ideal for players looking for authentic live poker action.
Players looking for regular live cash games.
Suitable for guests who enjoy strategic decision making.
A welcoming environment to build practical poker experience.
An excellent evening activity during a visit to Cairns Casino.
Follow major sporting events, access TAB betting facilities and enjoy Keno in one of the most distinctive entertainment spaces at Cairns Casino.
The Sports Arena is one of the standout attractions within the Cairns Casino complex. Its large LED display and surrounding screens create a highly visible sports-viewing environment with a broad 360-degree perspective.
Guests can follow live competitions, access TAB services, check Keno results and order drinks without leaving the atmosphere of the arena.
Watch live sport, place a bet and enjoy a drink within the same dedicated entertainment space.
A large-format central screen provides an impressive view of major sporting fixtures and live broadcasts.
Multiple viewing positions help guests follow the action from different areas throughout the Sports Arena.
The TAB Mega Wall presents racing and sports information in a clear format for guests using the betting facilities.
A dedicated lounge environment where guests can follow Keno draws while relaxing inside the casino complex.
Coverage can include major local and international sporting events, racing and popular competitions.
Drinks are available nearby, allowing guests to combine live sport, socialising and betting in one space.
Follow live sport or racing on the arena screens.
Use the available betting and gaming facilities.
Watch the action with drinks in a social setting.
From refined destination dining and Asian street food to breakfast, casual casino meals and late-night drinks, the complex offers a venue for every part of the day.
The complex’s refined dinner destination combines seasonal local produce with international influences in an elegant, softly lit setting.
A relaxed breakfast and coffee venue with indoor seating, work-friendly areas and an outdoor deck.
Best for breakfast, coffee and morning meetings
A late-opening casino bar serving cocktails, beer, wine, coffee and drinks directly within the gaming environment.
Best for drinks without leaving the casino floor
18+ Venue
Casual bistro-style dining with Australian pub favourites, generous booths and quick access from the gaming floor.
Family Friendly
Asian-inspired street food served in the historic Customs House, with a main dining room, private spaces and direct street access.
Live Lounge
A modern lounge in the main foyer combining cocktails, evening atmosphere and selected Asian-influenced food.
Beyond gaming, The Reef Hotel Casino offers an energetic evening atmosphere with live performances, BAR36 entertainment, special themed nights and vibrant social spaces throughout the complex.
BAR36 serves as the entertainment heart of the complex, combining premium cocktails with a relaxed lounge environment where guests can enjoy live music, DJs and regular evening performances before or after visiting the gaming floor.
Regular live bands and local musicians contribute to the evening atmosphere on selected nights throughout the year.
BAR36 also hosts DJ sessions that create a livelier late-night environment for guests looking to continue the evening.
Seasonal entertainment evenings and themed events complement the casino experience during selected periods of the year.
Connected directly to The Reef Hotel Casino, Pullman Reef Hotel combines five-star accommodation with premium leisure facilities, allowing guests to enjoy dining, entertainment and gaming without leaving the complex.
Pullman Reef Hotel offers 128 contemporary guest rooms and suites with private balconies, spa baths and a selection of city, park, pool or Trinity Inlet views. Guests can move seamlessly between the hotel, restaurants, bars and casino throughout their stay. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
An elevated outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers, city and water views, creating a relaxed retreat above the casino complex. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
The hotel includes a modern fitness centre together with a sauna, providing convenient wellness facilities for hotel guests. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
The Reef Hotel Casino and Pullman Reef Hotel provide flexible event spaces for conferences, weddings, gala dinners, corporate functions and private celebrations, supported by on-site accommodation, catering and entertainment.
From intimate celebrations to large corporate gatherings, the complex combines elegant function rooms, professional event planning, premium catering and luxury accommodation in a single waterfront destination.
Elegant reception spaces, tailored dining packages and luxury accommodation create a convenient venue for wedding celebrations.
Business meetings, seminars and conferences benefit from modern facilities, catering options and direct hotel access.
Birthday celebrations, gala dinners and social events can be tailored with flexible room configurations.
Dedicated event coordinators assist with venue hire, catering, room layouts and guest arrangements.
Visiting The Reef Hotel Casino for the first time is simple. Review the essential entry requirements, opening hours, guest facilities and safer gambling information before arriving.
Public holiday trading hours may differ. Guests should confirm current hours before travelling.
Guests must be at least 18 years old to enter the casino and participate in gambling activities. Valid photographic identification may be requested by casino staff.
Smart casual clothing is suitable for most visits. Clothing and footwear should remain clean, presentable and appropriate for a licensed entertainment venue.
On-site parking is available within the hotel and casino complex. Parking conditions, fees and any available gaming validation should be checked with Guest Services.
Staff are available throughout the venue to assist with directions, membership enquiries, gaming information and financial transactions.
Visit Guest Services for general information, Reef Rewards enquiries, venue directions and assistance during your visit.
The Cash Desk assists with approved casino transactions, chip purchases, chip redemption and the payment of eligible winnings.
Four ATMs are located in the foyer in front of Guest Services, outside the main gambling areas.
Table-game chips can be purchased through the Cash Desk or according to the instructions provided by gaming staff at the venue.
Use the casino map to locate gaming areas, restaurants, bars, Guest Services, the Cash Desk and other facilities within the complex.
Ask a dealer or gaming team member for assistance. How-to-play brochures are also available near the Cash Desk information stand.
Gambling should remain an enjoyable form of entertainment. Set personal time and spending limits, avoid chasing losses and never gamble with money needed for everyday expenses.
Find quick answers about visiting The Reef Hotel Casino, gaming, dining, accommodation, rewards, accessibility and other services available throughout the complex.
The complex is located at 35–41 Wharf Street in central Cairns, close to the waterfront, Reef Fleet Terminal, marina and city dining precinct.
Casino entry is restricted to guests aged 18 and over. Staff may request valid photographic identification to confirm a guest’s age or identity.
General entry to the casino is normally free. Charges may apply to selected ticketed entertainment, private events, dining experiences or special functions.
Yes. New players can ask dealers or gaming staff for basic guidance before joining a game. Information about game rules may also be available near the Cash Desk.
Casino chips can be purchased using approved payment methods at the Cash Desk or as directed by gaming staff. Chips can be redeemed at the Cash Desk before leaving the venue.
Reef Rewards is the casino’s membership program. Eligible members may receive access to personalised offers, promotions, member benefits and rewards linked to qualifying activity.
Reservations are recommended for Tamarind and for dining during busy evenings or special events. More casual venues may accept walk-in guests, subject to availability.
Access depends on the location of each restaurant or bar. Venues situated inside the licensed gaming area are restricted to adults, while selected hotel and foyer venues may welcome younger guests.
Yes. Pullman Reef Hotel forms part of the same complex, providing convenient internal access to casino gaming, restaurants, bars and entertainment facilities.
The hotel swimming pool, fitness centre and sauna are primarily provided for registered Pullman Reef Hotel guests. Access conditions should be confirmed directly with the hotel.
The complex provides accessible routes and facilities across key public areas. Guests requiring specific assistance should contact Guest Services or the hotel before arrival.
Photography and filming may be restricted on the gaming floor to protect guest privacy and casino security. Always ask a staff member before taking photographs inside gaming areas.
Report lost property to Guest Services or venue security as soon as possible. Provide a clear description of the item, the approximate time and the location where it was last seen.
Yes. The hotel and casino complex can host weddings, meetings, conferences, banquets and private functions with venue hire, catering, accommodation and event-planning support.
Guests can speak privately with Guest Services, security or trained responsible gambling staff. Free confidential support is also available through the Gambling Help Line on 1800 858 858.